"In the United States, Fat Tuesday, also known as Shrove Tuesday or Mardi Gras, is the day to indulge before Lent begins. In many parts of Eastern Europe, Fat Thursday (the last Thursday before Lent) heralds the winding down of Carnival season. In Poland, this is known as Tłusty Czwartek. Polonia in America celebrates Pączki Day on Fat Tuesday. Pączki (POHNCH-kee) are fried rounds of yeast dough with rosehip, prune, apricot, strawberry, raspberry or sweet cheese filling. My busia made them without filling and dusted them with granulated sugar. For less of a calorie load, try Baked Pączki. Freeze leftover egg whites and save for leftover egg white recipes...."